Our bodies, our choices

Anti-choice campaigners are beginning a period of vigils and protests. 40 Days for Life is an international religious anti-abortion campaign that campaign outside reproductive health clinics during Lent and attempts to prevent women from having terminations or accessing “baby-killing propaganda”.

The group describes itself as “an internationally co-ordinated 40-day campaign that aims to end abortion locally through prayer and fasting, community outreach and a peaceful all-day vigil in front of abortion businesses”. In previous years they have been accused of harassment of people coming to access abortions. Techniques promoted include singing hymns, giving out plastic rosary beads in baby pink and baby blue, leaflets that appear to be from healthcare providers.

Buffer zones, 150-metre areas around clinics and hospitals in England and Wales where anti-abortion protesting, intimidation, or influencing is now illegal, limit them. UK protests are planned in London (Brixton and Ealing), Reading, Bournemouth, Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Glasgow and Liverpool.

In July 2025, abortion law in Britain was partially decriminalised. Women and pregnant people are no longer subject to prosecution for ending their own pregnancies. However, the 1861 Offences Against the Person Act remains in force. Those who support others in accessing abortion, including friends, family members and some medical professionals, can still face investigation and prosecution under this law. Reform leader Nigel Farage has argued for reduced legal abortion term limits and has been linked to US anti-abortion lobbyists. A meeting, reported by the New York Times, took place between Farage and representatives of Trump’s state department, was brokered by the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) group. ADF is a US based anti-abortion, anti LGBT+ rights organisation.

In London and Sheffield plans to counter 40 Days for Life are being organised through trade unions and local ad hoc groups of residents. An “Our Bodies, Our Choices” demonstration is planned in Brixton on Sunday 1 March sponsored by Lambeth Trades Council.